Closers often get the lion’s share of attention in a bullpen. The nicknames, light shows, and signature walkout songs captivate an audience. Add in the fact that their appearance indicates the game is on the line, and nobody can fault the fans for zeroing in on the flamethrowers.
The Orioles had not one, but two closers come out of nowhere this season. Jorge López set the tone early on and Félix Bautista stole the show in the second half.
Fortunately for Baltimore, the closers were not the only pitchers making their mark. An Orioles bullpen that sent away Tanner Scott and Cole Sulser somehow emerged as one of the stronger units in the American League.